EDINBURGH BIKE TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Leith to the Forth: A 42 km Coast & Bridges Ride Past Edinburgh’s Iconic Spans
A guided, 5-hour cycle from Leith along the Firth of Forth to South Queensferry that covers the Forth Road and Rail bridges, coastal promenades and stately homes, with practical guidance on route, difficulty and logistics.
Leith to the Forth: A 42 km Coast & Bridges Ride Past Edinburgh’s Iconic Spans.
This guided 5‑hour, 42 km Coast & Bridges cycle tour departs from the bustling port district of Leith and follows the shoreline of the Firth of Forth toward South Queensferry, taking in views of the Forth Road and Forth Railway bridges and passing historic sites such as Lauriston Castle and Dalmeny House.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Coastal roadways and off‑road cycle paths
The 26‑mile / 42 km route runs mostly on cycle paths along the Firth of Forth and out of town to the north‑west, keeping traffic to a minimum while linking urban Leith with seaside promenades and waterfront viewpoints.
Iconic bridges and stately homes
Riders stop for superb views of the Forth Railway Bridge and the Forth Road Bridge and pass landmarks including Lauriston Castle and Dalmeny House set within the Dalmeny Estate.
A full‑day ride for fit cyclists
Graded challenging with several hills, this tour is best suited to fit, regular cyclists able to ride 4–5 hours; groups are kept small to a maximum of eight participants.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
You begin in Leith among cafés and harbour life, then settle into a long coastal push northwest along the Firth of Forth, pausing to take in the railway and road bridges and to explore waterfront towns such as South Queensferry before returning to Edinburgh; the outing runs approximately five hours with stops.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should choose an alternative.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The tour runs approximately five hours total, typically from about 10:00 to 15:00 with stops; the distance covered is 26 miles / 42 km.
Bikes, helmets and a guide are included; drinks and snacks are not included, so plan to bring water or purchase refreshments en route.
Meet at the Edinburgh Bike Tours office in Leith at 12B Timberbush, Leith, Edinburgh, EH6 6QF before the scheduled departure.
The route uses almost entirely cycle paths but includes several hills and is graded challenging; participants should be prepared for sustained riding and variable coastal conditions.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Coast & Bridges Guided Cycle Tour?
The tour is approximately 5 hours long and covers about 26 miles / 42 km.
Where do we meet the guide?
The meeting point is the Edinburgh Bike Tours office in Leith at 12B Timberbush, Leith, Edinburgh, EH6 6QF.
Are bikes and helmets provided?
Yes — the tour includes a bike and a helmet, as well as a guide.
What is the maximum group size and minimum age?
Groups are limited to a maximum of eight people and participants must be 16 years or older.
Are food and drinks included?
No — drinks and snacks are not included; there is a lunch stop at South Queensferry but lunch is not provided.
Is this ride suitable for children?
Children are only permitted if they are 16 or older and able to ride for 4–5 hours; for younger children the operator recommends the Family Tour or a Private/Custom tour.